Maltese folklore reimagined : redesigning mythic figures within their narratives through digital art

Abstract

This research aims to explore the Maltese historical context and folklore by investigating several key mythic figures through quantitative and variational research methods. The project both modernizes and preserves traditional tales by revitalizing these figures for contemporary audiences. It transposes culturally significant narratives onto a digital medium, employing advanced 3D modeling techniques, including attention to topology, armatures, physics, sculpting, texturing, and animation to bring these figures to life within their respective environments. Adopting a stylistic approach grounded in dark romanticism and gothic horror, the project draws on the creative visions of both local and international artists and collectives, incorporating cultural and narrative inspirations from various facets of speculative fiction. Including cryptozoological and pseudoarcheological frameworks. Special emphasis is placed on preserving the original identity of these mythic figures as shaped by oral traditions, even as they are reimagined in a digital context. The Godot game engine will be used to display these models and their environment, offering an interactive experience that allows users to explore and uncover elements of the original folk narratives through contextual hints. This approach not only preserves the narrative integrity of the original oral traditions but also presents them in a format that is accessible and engaging for modern viewers.